Troubleshooting
Tunic Flower problems — and how to fix them
Tunic Flower (Petrorhagia saxifraga) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Crown and root rot
Heavy clay soils or waterlogged winter conditions cause the crown to collapse and rot; plant in sharply drained grit mixes or raise planting level slightly above surrounding soil, and ensure no pooling occurs around the crown.
Aphids on new growth
Greenfly occasionally colonise the soft growing tips in spring, causing distortion; the plant's compact size makes hand-squishing effective, or apply insecticidal soap spray in the early morning.
Prevent tunic flower problems before they start
Most tunic flower issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Tunic Flower problems — FAQ
Why is my tunic flower crown and root rot?
Heavy clay soils or waterlogged winter conditions cause the crown to collapse and rot; plant in sharply drained grit mixes or raise planting level slightly above surrounding soil, and ensure no pooling occurs around the crown.
Why is my tunic flower aphids on new growth?
Greenfly occasionally colonise the soft growing tips in spring, causing distortion; the plant's compact size makes hand-squishing effective, or apply insecticidal soap spray in the early morning.